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Architects and construction experts are trying to understand the cause of a devastating fire at a recently refurbished tower block in west London, which has killed twelve people.

The fire broke out at the 24-storey Grenfell Tower near Notting Hill in the early hours of this morning. Twelve residents have been confirmed dead, with the toll expected to rise. Over 70 people have required hospital treatment.

Architects and construction experts are investigating whether the blaze spread more rapidly as a result of the buildings new cladding, as suggested by onlookers.

London firm Studio E Architects and contractors Rydon oversaw the £8.7 million refurbishment of the 1970s building, which completed last summer. The works included adding a new cladding of aluminium composite panels to the outer facades of the tower block, as well as installing an energy efficient heating system.

“It is too early to speculate what caused the fire and contributed to its spread. We will co-operate fully with all the relevant authorities in order to ascertain the cause of this tragedy,” said a statement from the organisation.

“We are aware that concerns have been raised historically by residents. We always take all concerns seriously and these will form part of our forthcoming investigations.”

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn says lessons need to be learned from the “nightmare” incident, pointing to a similarly fatal fire at Lakanal House in Camberwell, south London, in 2009. He condemned the lack of sprinklers and fire-fighting equipment on the premises.

“A review took place after the fire in Camberwell, and the government has that review,” he said. “We need to ask questions about what facilities and resources have been given to every local authority that has tower blocks in their area and, frankly most do.”